19.12.08

Elektronische Musik aus Köln

One for the electro-heads. This is a record of two parts. Tracks such as 'Was Kann der Papst da Sagen' and 'Wenn Mr Reagan es Will' highlight the balanced relationship between technological advancement and group performance, whereas 'Filmmusik' and 'Tanz in den Himmel' gives way to the Kraftwerk esthetic of machine over man. This is just before DAT machines, MIDI and computers became the norm, and man was left at their mercy. This is a vital documentation of the last days of hands-on programming and a record that still stands tall today. Check 'Biela' and 'Schlammgang', most especially, if you don't believe me. EMAK, the abbreviation of "Elektronische Musik aus Köln", was Kurt Mill's and Matthias Becker's studio-based project from Cologne, on the Originalton West label. The LPs (EMAK 1-3) are sadly long out of print, although some of the EMI pressings are still floating around. In 1994 Originalton did release the Best Of EMAK Vol.1-3 on a CD, so check the label link, and try and track down a copy. Good stuff. (download)